DESTREHAN — Destrehan High School alum Justin Jefferson is one of 12 national semifinalists for the Biletnikoff Award, presented in recognition of an outstanding college football receiver. Tight ends, slot receivers, backs, inside receivers, wide receivers, split ends and running backs are eligible for the award.

Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase represent Louisiana State University as semifinalists for the award. On Nov. 25, three finalists will be announced by the Tallahassee Quarterback Club Foundation, with the Biletnikoff award winner being revealed on the Home Depot College Football Awards on Dec. 12.

Jefferson didn’t see much playing time for the Wildcats until his junior season, when the then-155 lb. converted from quarterback to wide receiver.

It was there he found a home — and where he ultimately found his path to LSU, where he has followed in the footsteps of brothers Jordan and Rickey before him to fortify something of a family dynasty at Tiger Stadium.

“To see them all go to LSU,” said Destrehan head football coach Stephen Robicheaux, who coached all three during their time at DHS, “it’s just really special, and it’s fun to watch.”

Robicheaux said the three of them couldn’t be more different when it comes to personality. Jordan was a quiet player who led by setting a strong example. Rickey was a prankster and kept things light in the locker room and lifted spirits. Justin, Robicheaux said, is something of a combination of the two.

But they all shared great passion and drive, something Robicheaux credits in part to their upbringing. Their father, John Jefferson, was a standout basketball player who played college ball at Nebraska. Their mother, Elaine, Robicheaux called a “tremendous person” who kept on her boys to guide them on the right path.

“They all brought different things to the table when they were here,” Robicheaux said. “The traits they shared were that they put in hard work, had dedication and combined it with great athletic ability … to see three make it like they have, it’s pretty crazy. You hear about a pair of brothers, like the two that went to UCF (Shaquill and Shaquem Griffin) but I don’t know about three. It’s a great and rare thing for sure.”

For more information about the Biletnikoff Award, see BiletnikoffAward.com/about_award.